Maitland City Council has cancelled the Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest set down for September, due to the recent escalation of Public Health Orders affecting Greater Sydney and regional NSW.
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Steamfest is Maitland's largest event and is loved by so many people, regularly attracting crowds of up to 50,000 steam lovers to Maitland.
The decision to cancel this event for the second year, has not been made lightly, but given Steamfest relies on stakeholders and suppliers from rights across NSW and regularly attracts visitors from NSW and interstate, holding a large scale event is not possible at this time.
Manager City Experiences and Economy Shaelee Welchman said that with all the time and effort that goes into Steamfest, it's disappointing council had to cancel the event.
'"We understand that many people will be disappointed, but we are looking forward to planning for an even bigger and more exciting event in 2022 to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Steamfest," Ms Welchman said.
"During this time, council's priority is to keep the community safe, and with key stakeholders, including our trains providers, amusement providers, stallholders and a large number of attendees travelling to the event from the Greater Sydney area, the risks are a large concern.
Ms Welchman said: "Rrunning the event in April will give the best opportunity to celebrate this significant milestone properly.
"Not only for the event goers but also for everyone involved in the behind the scenes organisation of this fabulous event.
"We also want to thank our naming rights sponsor Burton Automotive and Rail Partner ARTC and our other sponsors for their ongoing support through this difficult time."
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